NORFOLK, Va. (WVEC) -- The American Red Cross is asking the public for help: they are in need of blood and platelet donors of all blood types.

The organization says blood donations have fallen short of expectations over the last two months, which has resulted in about 61,000 fewer donations than needed and caused a significant draw down of their blood supply.

The Red Cross says the shortage is the equivalent of not collecting any blood donations for more than four days.

Summer months can be particularly challenging for blood and platelet donations, because many regular donors are on vacation.